Cochrane's mayor writes letter to Province in opposition to dam

In a direct correspondence to the Minister of Environment and Protected Areas and Calgary MLA Rebecca Schulz, Mayor Jeff Genung stated his strong opposition to the proposed Glenbow East Dam.

In the letter, he outlined that Cochrane council recently passed a motion that was absolutely opposed to what is currently called the Glenbow Dam East Option.

“We further request that should the province proceed further with consideration of this option that the Government of Alberta commit to the funding costs for a comprehensive, technical impact study to evaluate the risks to Cochrane,” Genung wrote. “The current proposal, rather than safeguarding our community’s infrastructure, poses significant risks that could jeopardize years of investment and development in Cochrane.

He outlines that with the construction of Jame Walker Trail and the Jack Tennant Memorial Bride costing $54 million, as a testament to enhancing local infrastructure, the changes in modelled water levels and associated ice damming associated with the dam's construction are unacceptable.

He added that this extends beyond Cochrane’s infrastructure.

“It also threatens vital water and wastewater such as the Riviera Storm Pond, Griffin Road Storm Pond, and the Sanitary Syphon from the Gleneagles to the Wastewater Transfer Station,” he stated. “These facilities are essential for ensuring public health and environmental sustainability in our community.”

For risks associated with recreation, community, and natural amenities, Genung outlined that facilities like the SLS Centre, the upcoming Jumpstart Inclusive Multiuse Court, and connective pathways system would all be compromised if the dam goes foward as proposed.

“Additionally, planned storm ponds and pathways in Greystone and Southbow, along with natural amenities like the Glenbow Provincial Park, Haskayne Park, Griffin Historic Barn, Bow Rivers Edge Campground, and the Great Trail Project, all face potential harm,” Genung wrote.

In a review by the Town, he expressed that the current proposal fails to outline how it would ultimately impact Cochrane. He requests that no final decision is made on the Glenbow Dam East Option until a complete technical impact study, which includes any and all associated costs, is completed.

Genung also looks for a formal commitment from the province that they assume all associated costs for risk mitigation associated with critical infrastructure, if Glenbow East were to be pursued. 

In closing, Genung stated that the Glenbow Dam East Option fails to protect Cochrane’s interests, but also puts the Town’s investments and aspirations at risk.

“It is our position that the province would be best served to explore and advance alternative options,” he concluded. “We urge you to reconsider this proposal and explore alternative solutions that prioritize the safety, sustainability, and long term prosperity of our community.”